Guided growth for correction of axial deformities of the knee in children: A literature review

Abstract

Literature review was performed for axial deformities of the knee in children and possible correction by guided growth, which aims to restore the mechanical axis of the lower limbs by targeting the growth plate. In 2004, P. Stevens proposed temporarily blocking the bone growth plate with metal plate and two screws. The method includes the extraperiosteal placement of the metal plate at a certain segment of the growth plate (i.e., at the top of or in plane with the deformity). Its advantages are minimal invasiveness, higher accuracy and reliability, and ease and efficiency of use. In addition, there is a negligible risk of possible complications. The method of guided growth is a preferable alternative to osteotomy for the correction of the axial deformity of the knee joint in children and should be more widely used in the everyday practice of pediatric orthopedic surgeons.